9 tips for Winter 2016 from Lidewij Edelkoort

One of the first things that stands out as trend forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort presents her anti-fashion manifesto in the Vrije Universiteit of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, is that for one she is not dressed in black. She had swapped her 'uniform' of a loose fitting black dress for a transparent example bearing a print. On her feet glitter sandals adorned with sequins.

"The gate has been blown off the dam since I present the manifesto for the first time," says Edelkoort. "I never expected it, but 95 percent of the reactions I have received and read online are all positive. People say to me: 'I am so happy that you have said it, because I feel the same, but I don't dare to say it because I am stuck in the system.' Apparently I have translated what everyone is feeling well."

According to the trend forecaster the fashion system has managed to twisted itself shut. There is no room for innovation anymore, something which Edelkoort is "very concerned about.' In addition the educational system, fashion labels, designers, marketing teams - "that makes me the angriest because marketing has killed fashion" - catwalk shows, journalists, retailers as well as the consumer are to blame.

Trends for autumn/winter 2016 and 2017 according to Li Edelkoort

Although fashion is dead, Edelkoort still presents her vision for autumn and winter collections for 2016 and 2017. FashionUnited selected a few practical tips from the trend forecaster to share with its readers.

1. Brown "For the first time in twenty years, brown is making a come back. For example, at the moment it is close to impossible to buy a pair of brown shoes or bag. Next year there will be a lot of brown tones being combined with grey, so we can get used to it. The color apparently need a long time to return."

2. Plaid One of the trends for winter next year will revolve around anarchism, where people will deck themselves with, amongst other things tattoos. "If you analysis the clothing, it is actually quite traditional: tweed jackets and pleated skirts. Also lots of plaid. This trend is also taking it time to return, as we come out of a very long floral period."

3. Belts "We are going to see a belt moment. Pay attention to it, because a lot of money can be made in belts."

4. White collars

5. Back packs "It remains the 'it' bag."

6. Blankets Edelkoort sees a lot of inspiration taken from blankets and quilts in activewear. Not only will there be jackets to curl up into, but also many 'quilted motifs.'

7. Layering She also foresees a lot layering occurring within activewear. Think body warmers worn over shorts and leggings.

8. Matt Colors are not shiny any more, but matt. In addition she sees 'colors that hurt,' for example bright coral red with grey.

9. Shoe laces "A huge trend," says Edelkoort, "will be brightly coloured woven laces."

Originally written by Yasmine Esser, translated and edited by Vivian Hendriksz